This year’s theme, “Imagined Worlds,” inspired CT State at Gateway Community College Students to write essays that explore how art opens new perspectives. Students found inspiration in the YCBA’s collection and exhibitions William Blake: Burning Bright and Hew Locke: Passages—and now it’s time to celebrate their creativity.
Hear the excerpts from the winning essays, meet the writers, enjoy a reception—and let our collection open your eyes too.
About the Gateway to British Art Prize
In 2020, the Yale Center for British Art and CT State Community College Gateway (formerly Gateway Community College) launched the Gateway to British Art Prize. This joint initiative promotes students’ interest in viewing and interpreting art by prompting students across academic disciplines to explore the museum’s collection. Applicants select one artwork and compose a short nonfiction essay as a response. A panel of independent judges evaluates the annual submissions. The winners receive a cash prize and are highlighted on the YCBA website and social media.
Extended reading
Second place: Caterina Eastman
